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Digital Textile Printing, ITNH Explains the Basics

[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]From high print resolutions to limitless creative possibilities, digital textile printing opens up a world of opportunities for DIYers and businesses both small and large. But the textile printing process can be a bit more comprehensive than printing on materials like vinyl or paper, so it’s important to have a solid grasp of the basics. Take a look at our overview below to get a general understanding of the process.   Ink Chemistry The most important thing to understand about digital textile printing is that there is no one specific type of ink that will work for all applications. The type of fiber you’re printing on will dictate the ink chemistry that will be most responsive. Here are some examples:

Natural fibers like cotton: Reactive dyes

• Polyester: Disperse dyes

• Nylon and silk: Acid dyes

To find the right ink type, make sure you know what fabrics you will be printing on first. From there, you can determine the appropriate ink for the fabric. There’s no “silver bullet” ink type. This, combined with the high probability that you won’t purchase multiple printers (to run different inks sets), means that it is important to prioritize. Think about which fabrics and fiber types are most important in your business plan and start there. Then you can build your fabric printing business by adding additional printing technology. It’s a smart idea to work with an industry expert who can help you strategize the best initial equipment package to make future decisions easier.   Fabric Construction In addition to the different material types, fabrics can be constructed as:

• Woven

• Non-woven

• Circular knit

• Warp knit

The construction of the fabric for your intended application will lead you to the best printing equipment. Woven and non-woven fabrics typically only require a basic fabric printer with proper fabric tensioning and traditional pinch-rollers to advance the fabric through the printer. But knit fabrics can be a bit more difficult to work with. Knit materials can be stretchy and curl during the print process, so you should look for printers that include a sticky “transport” belt. With this feature, the fabric will be pressed flat against the belt and will be peeled off and wound once it exits the printer. These printers may have a higher cost than basic machines, but this is the most practical option for printing on difficult knit fabrics and other delicate fabrics.   Textile Printing Process Example There are variances to the overall process of printing textiles. When the details of the fabric, ink, and printer type have all been decided, the process will be identified, and the equipment package can be finalized. It is important to work with an industry professional to make sure that the correct process is identified with the correct processing equipment. However, here is an example of the steps involved in printing on nylon:

1. Coat the fabric with the specific coating to receive acid dye

a. Or, you can purchase fabric that’s already coated

2. Print fabric using the best-suited printer

3. Steam fabric in a textile steamer for ink fixation (permanence)

4. Wash fabric in a washing machine to remove pre-coat and excess/unfixed ink

Other processes, like those for polyester, usually have fewer steps than printing on nylon. Just keep in mind that each process will require specific equipment to achieve the best results.   The Steps to Finding the Perfect Digital Textile Printing Package

1. Identify the type of fabrics you’ll be working with. Make sure to pay attention to the construction of the fabric.

2. Check what ink type is best for your fabric.

3. Understand the printing process for your specific application.

4. Find a printer that works with your intended fabric and ink.

5. Explore the additional equipment you might need, like a pre-treatment machine, steamer, or heat press.

Since digital textile printing can be a complex process depending on your application, it’s always recommended that you talk to a professional before investing your money in any equipment. The fabric types, ink chemistries, materials, and processes vary to an extreme, but a professional can guide you through the pros and cons of your options. With the right equipment, you’ll be on your way to textile printing success in no time.   For additional information, contact Mike Terlizzi, Managing Partner, ITNH, Inc.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]

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Author

Kristen Dettoni

Kristen is a visionary textile designer based in Southern New Hampshire with a track record of industry-defining contributions dating back to 1993. She is the Founder of Design Pool and Domanda Design and is an occasional blogger. Her creative influence is reflected in her work across multiple sectors, including automotive, office, hospitality, healthcare and home furnishings. Kristen is an accomplished designer with over thirty years of experience in design with a BFA from Kansas City Art Institute and an MFA from Cranbrook Academy of Art. She maintains an art practice and exhibits her artwork in juried and group shows throughout the United States. Her artwork has received numerous awards and honorable mentions. Whatever her creative pursuit, Dettoni approaches it with a strong belief in the power of good design to transform our environments and ultimately, our lives.

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